Plant Profile

Cynara scolymusCynara scolymus

The artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is an impressive, thistle-like plant valued for its edible flower buds. It requires a sunny, sheltered location and deep, nutrient-rich soil. Cultivation is usually done from seed indoors, with planting out into the open field after the last frosts. Regular watering and fertilizing are essential for a good harvest. The flower buds are harvested before they open and can be used in various culinary ways. Artichokes require frost protection in winter.

Cynara scolymus (Cynara scolymus): plant portrait - Vegetables, Aster family, Harvest June - October
Cynara scolymus: plant portrait. harvest: June - October.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Pruning
Indoor sowingPlanting outdoorsHarvestPruning

Good neighbors

BeansCabbageLettuceSpinach

Indoor & direct sowing

Cynara scolymus: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

Sow in trays or pots indoors or in a greenhouse.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing in the open field is unusual for artichokes and only recommended in very mild regions.

Seed depth1 - 2 cm
Germination temp18 - 24 °C
Germination time10 - 20 days
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorYes
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

Cynara scolymus: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

Plant outdoors after the last frosts. Harden off pre-grown plants.

Soil pH6 - 7.5
Plant spacing60 - 100 cm
Row spacing80 - 120 cm
Plants per m²1 - 1.5 per m²
Bed widthfrom 100 cm

Site & practical notes

Artichokes are perennial and require a permanent spot in the garden. They are heavy feeders and need nutrient-rich soil and regular watering. Winter protection is crucial for the plant's survival. Harvest the flower buds before they open for the best flavor.

Temperature & frost

Cynara scolymus: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 10 °C
Optimal temperature18 - 25 °C
Max. heatup to 30 °C
Soil temperature18 - 20 °C
Frost sensitiveYes
Late frost sensitiveYes
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancelow

Water & nutrients

Cynara scolymus: Water, nutrients and care

Waterhigh
Critical water phasesFlowering period, Growth phase
Watering methodWater at the base
Droughthigh
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needheavy feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitymedium

Container & growth

Cynara scolymus: Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 20 l; Recommended: from 30 l; Diameter: from 40 cm; Depth: from 30 cm
SupportNo
Height100 - 150 cm
Width80 - 120 cm
Yield3 - 6 buds

Year plan

Cynara scolymus Calendar

Plants

The harvest season extends throughout the summer into autumn.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Pruning

Recurring tasks

FertilizeJune - August
outdoors: With organic fertilizer or compost.
Water regularlyJune - August
outdoors: Especially during dry periods.
Weed controlJune - September
outdoors: Keep the bed free of weeds.
HarvestJuly - September
outdoors: Harvest the flower heads before they open.

Relevant now

June

  • No additional single task

Next up

July

  • No additional single task

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

Direct sowingPlantingHarvestGrowingPruning

January

Quiet month

February

Sow indoors/in greenhouse

Direct sowing

  • Sow indoors/in greenhouseindoors: Sow in pots or trays.

March

Sow indoors/in greenhouse

Direct sowing

  • Sow indoors/in greenhouseindoors: Further sowing if needed.

April

Harden off seedlingsPlant out seedlingsThinning and rejuvenation

Direct sowing

  • Harden off seedlingsoutdoors: Gradually acclimatize plants to outdoor temperatures.

Planting

  • Plant out seedlingsoutdoors: After the last frosts, with adequate spacing.

Pruning

  • Thinning and rejuvenationPerform in April before new growth begins.

May

Plant out seedlingsMulch

Planting

  • Plant out seedlingsoutdoors: Plant further seedlings if needed.

Growing

  • Mulchoutdoors: Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

June

No additional single task

July

Quiet month

August

Quiet month

September

FertilizeWater regularly

Growing

  • Fertilizeoutdoors: A light feeding can extend the harvest.
  • Water regularlyoutdoors: If needed, especially during dry spells.

October

Cut back spent stemsHarvestPrepare winter protectionPruning after harvest

Planting

  • Cut back spent stemsoutdoors: Remove dead plant parts.

Harvest

  • Harvestoutdoors: Final harvest before the first frost.

Growing

  • Prepare winter protectionoutdoors: Protect from hard frost, e.g., with leaves or fleece.

Pruning

  • Pruning after harvestPerform after the final harvest in October/November.

November

Apply winter protection

Growing

  • Apply winter protectionoutdoors: Ensure plants are well protected.

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

Cynara scolymus Flowering & pollination

Self-fertility

partial

Pollinator needed

yes

Overview

Artichokes are protandrous (male first), meaning the anthers shed pollen before the stigmas mature. This promotes cross-pollination, although self-pollination can occur.

Notes

Primarily pollinated by insects, especially bees and bumblebees. The presence of pollinators is important for good seed set.

Pruning & care

Cynara scolymus Pruning & care

Pruning type

renewal

Pruning timing

Autumn

Pruning after harvest Perform after the final harvest in October/November.

Spring

Thinning and rejuvenation Perform in April before new growth begins.

Remove

Preserve

Avoid

Tools and hygiene

Disinfect shears and tools with alcohol after use to prevent disease transmission.

Companion guide

Cynara scolymus Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

BeansCabbageLettuceSpinach

Use & storage

Cynara scolymus Use & storage

Harvest

Harvest as soon as the outer bracts begin to open slightly. Do not harvest too late, as the flower heads will otherwise open.

Storage

Cool and dark

Storage life

Fresh: a few days in the refrigerator. Frozen: several months. Dried: up to 1 year.

Harvest

Harvest as soon as the outer bracts begin to open slightly. Do not harvest too late, as the flower heads will otherwise open.

Processing

After harvest

Store flower heads cool after harvest to delay opening. Dry or process leaves immediately after harvest.

Edibility & safety

Cynara scolymus Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts
Caution parts:Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)
Raw consumption:Raw consumption of the flower heads is possible but often less palatable and harder to digest than cooked artichokes. The leaves are bitter raw and are mostly used for medicinal purposes.

Safety notes

The artichoke is generally recognized as safe and edible. No toxic properties are known.

Animal safety

For many animals, this plant is generally low-risk: 14 animal types are rated suitable or mostly suitable. Quantity, plant part, and individual tolerance still matter.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of non-edible parts

Symptoms

Vomiting, Gastrointestinal upset

observe

The artichoke is generally recognized as safe and edible. No specific toxic properties are known. Raw consumption of the flower heads is possible but often less palatable and harder to digest than cooked artichokes. The leaves are bitter raw and are mostly used for medicinal purposes. Excessive consumption or consumption of non-edible parts can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of leaves, stems, or choke

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea) with excessive consumption or consumption of unsuitable plant parts

usually no action needed

Artichoke is generally considered safe for cats when only the edible parts (flower bud heart, inner bract parts) are fed in moderation. Consumption of leaves, stems, or the choke can lead to gastrointestinal upset. No specific toxic compounds are known.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Leaves (raw, bitter)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of the choke or outer, tough leaves/stems

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption or consumption of unsuitable parts)

observe

Artichoke is generally considered safe for rabbits when edible parts are fed in moderation. The choke and outer leaves/stems should be avoided. Excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of inedible parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excess

usually no action needed

The artichoke is generally recognized as safe and edible. The edible parts (flower bud base, inner bracts) can be fed in moderation. The choke and outer parts are inedible and should be avoided. Raw stems are also not recommended.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of leaves or choke

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption or consumption of unsuitable parts)

observe

Artichoke is generally safe for hamsters when only the edible flower bud base and tender parts of the bracts are fed in moderation. Raw leaves and the choke should be avoided. Excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of inedible parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excess

usually no action needed

Artichoke is generally considered safe for birds when edible parts are offered in moderation. Fibrous or tough parts should be avoided.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Ingestion of leaves, stems, or choke

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption or ingestion of unsuitable parts

observe

Artichoke is generally considered safe for horses, especially the edible flower bud base. Excessive consumption or ingestion of leaves and stems may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. No known toxic compounds.

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption of non-edible parts

Symptoms

Digestive upset

usually no action needed

The artichoke is generally recognized as safe and edible. The edible parts (flower bud heart and inner bracts) are safe for chickens in moderation. Non-edible parts like the outer leaves and choke should be avoided to prevent digestive upset.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of stems or tough leaves, Consumption of the choke

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption or consumption of unsuitable parts

observe

Artichoke is generally considered safe for ducks when edible parts (flower bud base, inner bracts) are fed in moderation. Unsuitable parts like stems or the choke should be avoided. No specific toxins are known.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of the choke or tough outer leaves

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excess or if unsuitable parts are eaten

usually no action needed

Artichoke is generally considered safe for poultry. Edible parts (flower bud heart, inner tender bracts) can be fed in moderation as a treat or supplement. Unsuitable parts like the choke or tough outer leaves should be avoided as they are indigestible and may cause gastrointestinal upset. No specific toxins are known.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of choke or tough plant parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset if excessive amounts are consumed or unsuitable parts are eaten.

observe

Artichoke is generally considered safe for sheep when edible parts are fed in moderation. Unsuitable parts or excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of leaves, stems, or choke

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption or consumption of unsuitable parts)

observe

Artichoke is generally considered safe for goats when the edible parts (flower bud heart, inner bracts) are fed in moderation. Unsuitable parts like leaves, stems, and the choke can cause gastrointestinal upset. No specific toxic compounds are known.

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption of non-edible parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset

usually no action needed

The artichoke is generally recognized as safe for consumption by livestock. The edible parts are the flower bud base and the tender parts of the bracts. The choke and the tough outer parts of the bracts, as well as raw stems, are inedible and should be avoided. No toxic properties are known.

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

Flower bud base (heart), Inner, tender parts of the bracts

Choke (the fine hairs inside the flower head), Outer, tough parts of the bracts, Stems (raw)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Ingestion of the choke or tough outer leaves

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption or ingestion of unsuitable parts

observe

Artichoke is generally considered safe for pigs when edible parts (flower bud base, inner bracts) are fed in moderation. Unsuitable parts like the choke or raw stems can cause digestive upset. No specific toxic compounds are known.

Open animal page

These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

unknown

Highest status

moderation only

Urgency

observe

Saving seed

Cynara scolymus Saving seed

Seed viability

2 - 3 years

Practical tips

Cynara scolymus Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Success pattern

High-impact tips

Grower observations

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Cynara scolymus (Cynara scolymus): plant portrait - Vegetables, Aster family, Harvest June - October
Cynara scolymus: plant portrait. harvest: June - October.
Cynara scolymus (Cynara scolymus): plant portrait - Vegetables, Aster family, Harvest June - October
Cynara scolymus: plant portrait. harvest: June - October.
Cynara scolymus (Cynara scolymus): whole plant for plant portrait - Vegetables, Aster family, Harvest June - October
Cynara scolymus: plant portrait. harvest: June - October.
Cynara scolymus (Cynara scolymus): whole plant for plant portrait - Vegetables, Aster family, Harvest June - October
Cynara scolymus: plant portrait. harvest: June - October.

Health

Pests, Diseases

Diagnosis help

Cynara scolymus Diagnosis help

Pest groups

Disease groups

Prevention

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis requires observing symptoms such as leaf discoloration, feeding damage, fungal attack, or growth disorders. The combination of symptoms and environmental conditions aids identification.

Cultural prevention

Monitoring

First response

Diagnostic rules

White, powdery coating on leaves and stems

Possible causes: Powdery mildew

  • Check humidity
  • Assess plant ventilation

Gray, fuzzy coating on flower heads and leaves, often with a rotten smell

Possible causes: Gray mold

  • Check for moisture and wetness on affected areas
  • Look for plant injuries

Wilting plants, yellowish discoloration of lower leaves, rot at the roots

Possible causes: Root rot

  • Check soil moisture (waterlogging?)
  • Carefully expose roots and examine for rot

FAQ

When is the best time to plant artichokes?

Artichokes are best planted outdoors in spring (April/May) after the last frosts have passed. Pre-cultivation indoors from February/March is recommended.

How do I overwinter artichokes correctly?

In autumn, cut the plants back close to the ground and cover the base with a thick layer of leaves, compost, or brushwood. In very cold regions, fleece or jute can also be wrapped around the plant.

Why do my artichoke heads open before I can harvest them?

This can be due to harvesting too late, inconsistent watering, or high temperatures. Harvest the buds as soon as the outer bracts begin to open slightly, but before the petals become visible.

Are artichokes perennial?

Yes, artichokes are perennial plants that can grow in the same location for several years with good care. However, they require winter protection to survive the cold season.

Is Cynara scolymus safe for Dog?

Cynara scolymus is classified as moderation only for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. The artichoke is generally recognized as safe and edible. No specific toxic properties are known. Raw consumption of the flower heads is possible but often less palatable and harder to digest than cooked artichokes. The leaves are bitter raw and are mostly used for medicinal purposes. Excessive consumption or consumption of non-edible parts can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Is Cynara scolymus safe for Cat?

Cynara scolymus is classified as moderation only for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: usually no action needed. Artichoke is generally considered safe for cats when only the edible parts (flower bud heart, inner bract parts) are fed in moderation. Consumption of leaves, stems, or the choke can lead to gastrointestinal upset. No specific toxic compounds are known.

Is Cynara scolymus safe for Rabbit?

Cynara scolymus is classified as moderation only for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Artichoke is generally considered safe for rabbits when edible parts are fed in moderation. The choke and outer leaves/stems should be avoided. Excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Is Cynara scolymus safe for Guinea pig?

Cynara scolymus is classified as moderation only for Guinea pig. Risk: unknown. Urgency: usually no action needed. The artichoke is generally recognized as safe and edible. The edible parts (flower bud base, inner bracts) can be fed in moderation. The choke and outer parts are inedible and should be avoided. Raw stems are also not recommended.

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-11

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-11

  3. Trefle API

    PlantNet · 2026-05-11

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